Driftwood Beach – Jekyll Island, Georgia, USA

Driftwood Beach is one of the most iconic and photographed locations on the entire East Coast — a hauntingly beautiful shoreline where ancient, weathered trees have become natural sculptures along the sand. Located on the northern end of Jekyll Island, this beach features twisted driftwood, soft golden sand, and a quiet, almost magical atmosphere that attracts photographers, couples, families, and nature lovers year-round.

While Driftwood Beach is not ideal for swimming due to strong currents and shallow tide flats, it is unmatched for scenic walks, sunrise views, shelling, and breathtaking coastal photography.

🎯 Things to Do

• Photography: Sunrise brings dramatic lighting across the driftwood — perfect for professional and phone photographers alike.

• Beach Walks: Explore the long stretch of shoreline scattered with fallen trees, roots, and naturally sculpted wood.

• Shelling: Low tide reveals shells, sand dollars, and tidal pools.

• Picnicking: Bring snacks or lunch and enjoy them among the driftwood under natural shade.

• Wildlife Watching: Look for dolphins offshore, shorebirds feeding at low tide, and hermit crabs in tidal pools.

• Romantic Strolls: The peaceful, dreamy atmosphere makes Driftwood Beach a favorite for engagements, weddings, and sunset walks.

This is a beach for wandering, exploring, and appreciating the raw beauty of the Georgia coast.

🚗 Access & Facilities

Driftwood Beach is more rustic than other beaches on Jekyll Island, but it’s easy to access.

• Parking: Several small lots along North Beachview Drive. Parking is free, but lots fill early during peak seasons.

• Boardwalk Access: Short boardwalks and sand paths lead from the parking areas directly to the shoreline.

• Restrooms: None directly at the beach — the nearest public restrooms are at Great Dunes Beach Park or Clam Creek Picnic Area.

• Showers: None on-site.

• Lifeguards: None — this is a natural, unsupervised beach.

• Pet-Friendly: Dogs allowed on a leash, making it great for pet owners.

• Accessibility: Soft sand and uneven terrain make access challenging for wheelchairs or strollers.

This is a nature-focused beach, so pack what you need and expect a more rugged experience.

🌴 Nearby Attractions

• Clam Creek Picnic Area – shaded picnic spots, fishing pier, and restrooms nearby

• Jekyll Island Fishing Pier – great for crabbing, fishing, and ocean views

• Great Dunes Beach Park – full amenities, restrooms, and lifeguards

• Georgia Sea Turtle Center – sea turtle rescue and education

• Jekyll Island Historic District – museums, cottages, and oak-lined paths

• Oceanview Beach Park – a more traditional swimming beach nearby

☀️ Best Time to Visit

Driftwood Beach is beautiful in every season, but conditions vary with the tides.

Best times:

• Sunrise: Golden lighting over the driftwood — unbeatable for photography.

• Low Tide: Best for exploring, shelling, and walking the length of the beach.

• Spring & Fall: Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

• Winter: Moody skies and peaceful solitude — great for scenic walks.

Summer is popular but can be warm; visit early for shade and cooler air.

💡 Local Tips

• Check tide charts — low tide offers the best walking and photo opportunities.

• Wear sturdy sandals or closed shoes; driftwood can be slippery after rain.

• Bring water and snacks — no facilities nearby.

• Keep an eye out for wildlife but avoid disturbing nesting areas.

• Come early for photos, especially if you want the beach to yourself.

⚠️ Safety Note

Driftwood Beach is not recommended for swimming due to strong currents, uneven seabed, and tidal changes. Enjoy the shoreline but use caution near water.

📍 Quick Facts